Atropsocus

Mockford, 1993

common barklice

Species Guides

1

Atropsocus is a of barklice in the Psocidae, established by Mockford in 1993. It contains a single described , A. atratus. Members of this genus are small, winged insects that inhabit bark and foliage surfaces, feeding on microflora such as lichens, , and fungal spores.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Atropsocus: //ˌæ.trəpˈsɒ.kəs//

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Identification

As a with a single described (A. atratus), identification relies on distinguishing A. atratus from other Psocidae. Specific diagnostic characters for the genus have not been detailed in widely accessible sources. The genus is placed in Psocidae based on wing venation patterns and genitalia typical of the .

Habitat

Bark and foliage surfaces, typical of barklice in the Psocidae.

Diet

Feeds on microflora including lichens, , and fungal spores, consistent with documented habits of Psocidae barklice.

Ecological Role

Contributes to nutrient cycling by consuming and fragmenting microflora on plant surfaces.

Similar Taxa

  • BlasteBoth are of barklice in the Psocidae with similar preferences on bark and foliage.
  • PsocusType of Psocidae; shares -level characteristics but differs in specific genitalia and wing venation patterns.

More Details

Taxonomic status

The is , containing only A. atratus. The authorship is Mockford, 1993.

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